Superoxide Illustration (IMAGE) Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Caption In this simplified illustration, the top scenario shows what is known about superoxide and coral bleaching: excessive production of superoxide within the coral tissue can cause the loss of symbiotic algae living inside the coral. The bottom scenario illustrates the new finding by WHOI scientists: superoxide produced at coral surfaces -- outside of their cells -- they may actually play a beneficial role in coral health and resilience. Credit Illustration by Eric Taylor, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Usage Restrictions for news purposes only with proper credit License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.